Leatherman Wave Plus Review (2026): The Multitool That Justifies Its Price

Cheap multitools tend to feel flimsy within weeks, and the Leatherman Wave Plus is often cited specifically because it doesn't. After carrying it daily for outdoor trips, home projects, and general everyday carry for well over a year, the build quality has genuinely held up to constant use.

Who it's for

This suits anyone who wants one reliable, well built tool for outdoor trips, home repairs, and everyday situations rather than assembling a full toolkit for minor tasks. Anyone needing highly specialized tools for a specific trade will still want dedicated equipment, since a multitool trades some precision for overall versatility.

What we liked

• Build quality feels genuinely premium, with tight tolerances and smooth action on every tool compared to cheaper multitools that feel loose or wobbly.
• Outside accessible blades mean the most commonly used tools open without needing to unfold the whole plier body first.
• The 25-year warranty reflects real confidence in long term durability, and the tool has lived up to that expectation.

What could be better

• It's heavier than minimalist keychain multitools, which matters if ultralight carry is the priority.
• Replaceable wire cutter inserts eventually need replacing with heavy regular use on hard wire.

Key specs, explained

Outside accessible blades means the knife and other frequently used tools can be opened directly from the closed position without unfolding the full plier handles first, which matters a lot for quick, one handed access compared to multitools where every tool requires opening the main body first. The replaceable wire cutter inserts allow the cutting edges to be swapped out once worn from heavy use, extending the tool's usable life significantly compared to a fixed, non-replaceable cutting edge.

Frequently asked questions

Q: Can it be carried through airport security? No, like most multitools with a knife blade, it needs to go in checked luggage rather than carry on for air travel.

Q: Are replacement parts actually available? Yes, Leatherman sells replacement wire cutter inserts and other serviceable parts directly, which is part of why the tool can last for many years of use.

Should you buy it?

For a genuinely durable, versatile everyday carry tool, this remains one of the most trusted multitools available.

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